Self Service on my outboard q's

[actions]

Gents,

Planning this year to service my engine myself (40hp Honda 4/). I am planning the following

1. Main engine Oil
2. Gear Oil
3. Oil Filter
4. Fuel Filters
5. Spark Plugs
6. Impellor
7. Grease everything.

However i've seen service kits that include a thermostat gasket. Where is this????, how easy is it to do.

Also my service manual states to check the exhaust clearances every 12 months????. Again is this easy for someone to do themelves and where do i start.

I know i'm going to need some extra tools but im sure it will all be cheaper in the long run and finally is there anything i need to look out for when doing the service or things to note. I have followed the impellor thread from aj so know about cleaning all that up

Thanks.

[actions]

I have had a reply from Honda direct and they have provided the inlet valve and exhaust valve clearances. Just have no idea where to look or how to do them!!!!! Doh.

Sent from me!

[Downhilldai]

Best you get someone who knows what they're doing to service it for you, while you watch & learn.

[actions]

Yeah you could be right there. I can do all the basics but the gaskets and certainly valve clearances threw me somewhat.

Last thing i want to do is cause problems that don't exist.

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[mick]

Do the stuff you can your self 1 to 7 then get someone to do the other bits for you that's what I am wanting to do.

[Chris]

The thermostat gaskets are there so you can pull the thermostat to ensure it operates at the correct temperature and that no crap has go into the housing. If you get a service manual it should cover most things. Setting vale clearances is not difficult and all you will need over the usual tools are a set of feeler gauges. However as the previous posters have stated, it might seem easy to describe on here but if you get it wrong you won't be a happy chap.

[actions]

I take all of your advice onboard and think your all spot on. I will do the bits i know i can do and i feel confident enough to do the impellor but will take the advice to get the gasket and valves done at the marine. at least i can take it to them when i need to if any issues arise and they have been very good in the past with previous engines.

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[spartacus]

The thermostat is straight forward job to do yourself. The gasket always needs replaced when you do this job - because once you remove it to inspect, the gasket will inevitably tear. Clean off the old gasket with a Stanley blade to ensure the thermostat housing and engine block mating surface are nice and clean.

As far as I know on the Honda BF40/50hp - the thermostat housing is at the top of the block secured with two bolts. See diagram.

With the bolts removed, the housing may not necessarily come off as the gasket usually bonds to the engine block. A gentle knock around the circumference of the housing with a rubber mallet usually does the trick. The thermostat can now be pulled from the engine block. Give the thermostat a good clean and wire brush any salt deposits with a soft bristle brass wire brush. If you haven't had any cooling issues or warning alarms - then there's no specific need to test the thermostat, it can be cleaned and refitted.

Look at the aperture of the engine block where the thermostat was removed. You will normally see salt deposits. Thoroughly clean this. Apply a light smear of marine grease to the rubber seal on the thermostat before seating it again. Now add the gasket, then the housing. Do not over-tighten the two bolts.

[actions]

Thanks for in depth reply. Much appreciated.

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